Apple moves to work closely with Chinese partners

BEIJING — The second China International Supply Chain Expo, which concluded on Saturday, offered visitors a rare chance to peep into the complex supply chain of Apple Inc, which staged a joint show with four select Chinese suppliers at its booth.

The Chinese partners produce acoustics and other devices and packaging boxes for Apple and are leaders in their respective niches.

Unlike other expos that focus on promoting complete products, the CISCE, which began on Nov 26 in Beijing, emphasized supply chain cooperation.

Apple's booth at the CISCE did not showcase popular Apple products. Instead, it displayed dismantled iPhone parts produced by Crystaloptech, Goertek, LY itech and other Chinese suppliers.

The US tech giant, which boasts a huge supply chain system in China, also brought along three of its Chinese suppliers at the first CISCE last year.

"I am so proud that Apple has an exhibit here with our partners. We could not do what we do without them," Apple CEO Tim Cook said on Nov 25 while visiting Apple's booth at the CISCE.